Media Server

Media servers are audio and video components that store audio and video content and play it back on demand for consumers, without the need for bulky discs and/or slow load times.

Home Theater PCs (HTPCs) are considered media servers, but have many more features, such as home automation capabilities and Internet access.

Media servers are more accurately defined as purpose-built components on closed-ended systems for more specific uses like storing music, movies and photos.

Many media servers have removable hard drives and several terabytes of storage space.

We recommend that, no matter what media server you use, you back up your entire media collection in real time on a separate hard drive. The time it takes to rip your collection paired with the horrible reliability of all hard drives makes for some very sad or angry music and movie fans when bad things happen to good people.

With cable and satellite TV constantly trying to reinvent itself to keep up with the times there has been a rise in streaming media players. These allow for more personalization and choice when it comes to what content you watch on your TV.
Unfortunately, as with all new tech, there are tons of choices and the options aren't always clear. Do you want to mirror your tablet? Or store all your movies in one convenient spot? Maybe you just want to watch Netflix?
These media player can do it all, so have a look at the gallery, check out the reviews, and decide which one is right for you . . .

The Pros and Cons of Today's Best Media Servers and Streamers

Google ChromecastPros: $39 is cheap, the unit is easy to use, and Google has now opened the software development kit to outside developers.Cons: This is not a standalone media streamer (works with a portable device like tablet), and the list of supported apps is currently limited. Read our review here. And if you already have one, good news.

The Pros and Cons of Today's Best Media Servers and Streamers

The Roku 3Pros: Roku has the best selection of apps to date, the device is small and fast, and the remote has motion control and a headphone output.Cons: Roku doesn't offer a YouTube app, and the newest box is only compatible with HDMI-equipped TVs. Read our review to learn more.

WD TV LivePros: The WD TV Live offers a great assortment of Web services, including Netflix, Hulu Plus, Vudu, Pandora, Spotify, CinemaNow, Facebook, and more. Cons: Western Digital does not offer an apps store to expand and customize the list of Web services. Here's the review.

The Pros and Cons of Today's Best Media Servers and Streamers

MovieNite PlusPros: It is a competitively priced option that offers reliable performance. Cons: The MovieNite service does not have as many apps as some of its competitors, including big omissions like Hulu Plus and Amazon Instant Video. Here's the review for more info.

2The Pros and Cons of Today's Best Media Servers and Streamers

Co-Star Media PlayerPros: Low cost and robust app options.
Cons: Poor integration with the remote control via Google. Here's our review to help you sort it all out.

The Pros and Cons of Today's Best Media Servers and Streamers

The Kaleidescape Cinema OnePros: Rock-solid performance, best user experience in the business, and Blu-ray quality downloads.
Cons: You need the disc vault to store your Blu-rays, the system is expensive, and the K-scape doesn't support HD music files (yet).
Here's the review.